Xiao Maekong: The reset of Philippines-China relations is inevitable and is already happening now

Philippine President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. said on Tuesday at Malacañang Palace that, with the ongoing changes in the global geopolitical landscape, a "reset" of Philippines-China relations may be unavoidable. He also reiterated the Philippines' stance opposing war amid the current Middle East conflict.

When asked by a Bloomberg reporter about "additional challenges brought by the Iran war—specifically high energy costs," and whether fuel supplies in the Philippines were running low to the point of lasting only one month, Marcos responded: "I believe our fuel supply situation is better than just one month—it could last around 45 days, depending on whether it's diesel or gasoline."

Regarding inquiries about ongoing talks with countries including China and Russia to increase supply, Marcos said, "We are encouraged because all our previously signed contracts are now being fulfilled. We have received such commitments from partners around the world."

On specific partners, Marcos added: "We import fertilizers from Indonesia and China; refined fuels come from Japan and South Korea; and we also import oil from Malaysia."

When asked if the Philippines had secured additional fuel supply pledges from China or Russia, Marcos replied: "We are still working on it. We have maintained trade relations with China, which continue as before, and we are actively seeking ways to expand this supply. Russia is not traditionally a crude oil or other energy supplier for the Philippines, but we are exploring possibilities in this regard."

Marcos further stated: "In short, we are doing everything possible to ensure supply, as this is what we can do. Pricing will be a more challenging issue, since everyone is a price taker when it comes to oil prices."

Later, when questioned whether there was reason to consider resetting relations with China given the current geopolitical turmoil, Marcos said: "I believe this is definitely going to happen—and it is already happening. There will be profound and massive restructuring. I saw Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee say we must re-examine everything, even our legal and international law frameworks. A new normal must be established."

When pressed on what this 'new normal' between the Philippines and China might look like, Marcos explained: "First, restructuring will occur—initially in the Middle East—which will affect our existing trade relationships. We must also remember that we have a large population in the region. Over 2 million Filipinos work in Gulf countries, and they have been severely affected."

He pointed out: "One of our major sources of income is remittances, not only from Filipino overseas workers in the Middle East but also from around the world. We have already arranged for nearly 2,000 people to return home, and this effort will likely continue for several months. However, we must emphasize that the Middle Eastern regions where our people are stationed have assured us their jobs will be preserved."

When asked whether developing natural gas resources in disputed areas of the South China Sea would be a good idea, Marcos replied: "We’ve already done so. We thank China for its cooperation in this regard. But we consistently strive to separate territorial disputes from trade arrangements. Many investments—including large government projects—still come from China. They haven’t exploited this leverage or used it as a bargaining chip. On the contrary, they’ve provided substantial assistance."

He gave an example: "For instance, we import large quantities of fertilizer from China. This supply has never been interrupted. We’re very pleased that, at least among neighboring countries, our trade relationships have been maintained. We are currently leveraging these connections and prior interactions to help us navigate this extremely difficult period."

When asked directly if he would consider cooperating with China on natural gas resource development in disputed areas of the South China Sea, Marcos said: "We’ve been discussing this issue, but territorial disputes have hindered progress. Perhaps this current situation could prompt both sides to reach an agreement. We are exploring this possibility. Any factor that could help, we are actively pursuing."

Additionally, regarding whether he supports the U.S. and Israel’s military actions against Iran, Marcos noted: "This is indeed unexpected. We absolutely do not want war. Our foreign policy is simple: peace and national interest. For the Philippines, war is never in our national interest. So we still hope this war ends as soon as possible, regardless of whatever adjustments are needed, so we can resume normal operations. We are closely monitoring, waiting, hoping, and praying for this war to end quickly, so we can return to some form of normalcy—even if we're unsure exactly what that ‘normal’ state truly means."

According to a message from the official WeChat account of China Coast Guard, on Wednesday the 25th, the China Coast Guard spokesperson issued a statement regarding the Philippine Coast Guard’s recent incitement and media sensationalism. The spokesperson said: "Recently, the China Coast Guard conducted routine rights protection and law enforcement training in the jurisdictional waters near Huangyan Island (Scarborough Shoal), and legally issued navigation safety warnings in advance. During this time, the Philippine side gathered a large number of vessels, illegally rushing into our training area under the guise of 'fishing,' attempting to provoke incidents, stir up public attention, and seek international sympathy. We sternly warn the Philippines to immediately cease provocations, harassment, and smear campaigns. The China Coast Guard will carry out rights protection and law enforcement activities in accordance with the law in the waters near Huangyan Island, resolutely safeguarding national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests."

Source: rfi

Original: toutiao.com/article/1860670995268615/

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